Rachel Kolisi is stepping into a new public chapter, announcing the release of her memoir, Falling Forward, alongside a companion documentary set for release in March 2026.
The philanthropist, health activist and former wife of Springboks captain Siya Kolisi shared the news just days after turning 36, marking what she describes as a deeply personal period of reflection, healing and growth.
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A story shaped in the public eye
Falling Forward traces the emotional journey that unfolded publicly after Rachel and Siya Kolisi announced their divorce in October 2024, ending their eight-year marriage.
Once viewed as South Africa’s “golden couple”, their separation shifted public perceptions of Rachel, who has since worked to redefine her identity beyond the label of a rugby wife.
While the divorce forms part of the backdrop, Rachel has been clear that the memoir is not a tell-all.
Instead, it focuses on her internal transformation and the quiet resilience required to rebuild after personal loss under intense public scrutiny.
‘Not just about divorce’
Rachel has long used her platform to speak openly about grief, anxiety and the pressure placed on women to hold everything together.
She has emphasised that Falling Forward centres on self-discovery rather than the breakdown of her marriage.
In a recent interview, she explained that the overwhelming response to her honesty online showed her that vulnerability can be an act of service.
“So many women told me that my openness helped them with their own challenges,” she said. “Not only divorce, but other emotional struggles too.”
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Challenging the ‘perfect woman’ narrative
Long before her separation, Rachel had spoken out against the unrealistic expectations placed on women to be flawless mothers, partners and professionals.
She has described how easily those ideals collapse when life takes an unexpected turn.
“We set incredibly high standards for ourselves,” she has said. “Then something happens – a divorce, a sick child, a retrenchment – and our world collapses. But we keep pretending.”
Her memoir and documentary aim to dismantle that silence and normalise conversations around emotional resilience.
Recognition during a difficult season
In September 2025, Rachel received a Women of Wonder (WoW) Award for leadership, philanthropy and social impact – recognition that came during one of the most challenging periods of her life.
She has described the award as a reminder that she was still moving in the right direction, even amid public scrutiny.
Choosing impact over retreat
Rachel also reflects on the challenges of living publicly. At one point, she stepped away from social media for six weeks after online criticism became overwhelming.
While acknowledging the need for rest, she ultimately chose not to retreat permanently.
“If you live publicly, there’s also a responsibility,” she has said. “Do you just chase opportunities, or do you want to make a difference?”
That belief underpins Falling Forward, which she describes as a companion rather than a confession – a guide for anyone learning how to keep moving after a fall.
Release details and roadshow
Readers attending the Falling Forward national roadshow in Makhanda on 4 March and Gqeberha on 5 March will have the opportunity to purchase the book ahead of its official release.
The memoir will be available nationwide and online from mid-March 2026, alongside the documentary.
